Hamilton issues 1st cold weather alert of the season as temperatures forecast to feel like -24

With a wind chill of —24 C forecast overnight Sunday, Hamilton's medical officer of health issued the first cold weather alert of the season.

The forecast low is —17 C overnight, but Environment Canada says it will feel much colder. On Monday, the high is —6 C. The wind chill is forecast to be —24 C in the morning and —9 C in the afternoon.

In a Sunday news release, the city said it notified community agencies who work with vulnerable people and those experiencing homelessness. It added public recreation centres and libraries will be available for warming during regular business hours.

From Dec. 1 to March 31, regardless of temperature, the city has extra warming and drop-in shelter spaces available at Mission Services Night Link, Mission Services Willow's Place and YWCA Carole Anne’s Place.

Consider checking on neighbours, city says

During a cold alert, the city says, consider checking on neighbours to make sure they have heat. Hamilton's heat bylaw requires landlords to keep units at a minimum of 20 C between Sept. 1 and May 31.

If you must be outdoors during a cold alert, the city recommends the following:

• Dress in layers of clothing and keep inner layers dry.

• Keep your head and hands warm with a hat, scarf and gloves.

• Keep your feet dry.

• Drink warm fluids, but avoid caffeine and alcohol.

• Avoid strenuous exercise.